If you’ve ever spent any time with old books, or stepped into the right used bookstore, you’ve encountered that distinctive smell. Produced by Abe’s Books, and drawing on research from chemists at University College, London, this video looks at the science behind the aroma of used books — at what happens when chemicals and organic matter confront heat, light, moisture and time.

When you’re done watching the video, you might want to spend time with a second clip that deals with another part of the lifecycle of the book — the birth of a book. Shot by Glen Milner at Smith-Settle Printers in Leeds, England, this short film lets you watch firsthand a book — Suzanne St Albans’ Mango and Mimosa — being made with old school printing methods. Enjoy.

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About Us

Open Culture editor Dan Colman scours the web for the best educational media. He finds the free courses and audio books you need, the language lessons & movies you want, and plenty of enlightenment in between.